Proper engine maintenance is not just a procedure we follow because the manufacturer recommends it. It is the only way to maintain the performance, lifespan, and safety of your motorcycle or vehicle at the highest possible level. Nevertheless, many riders—even experienced ones—fall into frequent mistakes that over time can cause serious damage and expensive repairs.
In this article, we thoroughly analyze the 5 most common mistakes observed in engine maintenance, explain why they are dangerous, and present the correct preventive measures so that every rider knows what to look out for.
Mistake 1: Using the wrong oil viscosity
The lubricant is the factor that determines the life of the engine. Viscosity—the “thickness” and behavior of the oil at high and low temperatures—directly affects:
- Protection of metal surfaces
- Engine cooling
- Performance at high RPM
- Fuel consumption
Using oil with the wrong viscosity may lead to either insufficient lubrication or excessive friction.
What can happen with the wrong viscosity
- Engine overheating
- Increased oil consumption
- Piston and cylinder wear
- Performance loss at high RPM
- Difficulty starting in cold weather
How to choose the correct viscosity
A selection guide based on technical requirements of motorcycles:
| Viscosity | Performance in cold | Performance in heat | Ideal use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5W-40 | Excellent start-up | High stability | Sport, scooter, city |
| 10W-40 | Balanced performance | Stable across a wide temperature range | General use |
| 15W-50 | High thermal resistance | Suitable for high temperatures | Adventure, off-road |
| 20W-50 | Thick protection film | For older engines | Classic motorcycles |
Mistake 2: Delaying the oil change
Many riders extend oil change intervals, often because the engine “sounds fine” or because they believe modern oils last forever. In reality, lubricant:
- Oxidizes
- Loses its viscosity
- Collects metallic particles
- Becomes contaminated by fuel and moisture
This means that as time passes, its effectiveness decreases significantly.
Risks of delayed oil change
- Clogged lubrication channels
- Engine overheating
- Camshaft wear
- Increased friction and stress
- Seal damage
Indicative oil change intervals
| Engine type | Recommended change interval |
|---|---|
| City motorcycles | 3,000–5,000 km |
| Adventure / Touring | 4,000–6,000 km |
| High-performance | 3,000–4,000 km |
| Older engines | 2,000–3,000 km |
Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s manual.
Mistake 3: Using the wrong type of oil (synthetic, semi-synthetic, mineral)
Beyond viscosity, the chemical composition of the lubricant is equally important. Each type has different resistance, stability, and intended use.
Table – Comparison of oil types
| Oil type | Advantages | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Fully synthetic | Maximum protection, stability at high temperatures, low wear | Sport, supersport, touring, adventure |
| Synthetic | Balanced performance–price, good thermal stability | City, commuting |
| Mineral | Thicker composition, suitable for old engines | Classic motorcycles |
Common mistakes when choosing oil type
- Choosing mineral oil for modern, high-revving engines
- Mixing different oil types
- Underestimating the importance of fully synthetic oil
Gand Oil fully synthetic lubricants offer the highest level of protection, thanks to their high purity, stable viscosity, and technologically advanced formulation.
Mistake 4: Neglecting the oil filter
The oil filter plays a crucial role in trapping contaminants, metal shavings, and combustion residues. If not replaced on time, the oil is not properly cleaned and deposits accumulate within the engine.
What happens when the oil filter is neglected
- Continuous circulation of dirty oil
- Wear of bearings and camshaft
- Reduced oil pressure
- Increased friction
- Increase in operating temperatures
Mistake 5: Neglecting oil level checks
The engine naturally loses small amounts of oil due to burning or evaporation. If the rider does not frequently check the level, the engine may operate with insufficient oil.
This is one of the most dangerous mistakes, as lack of lubrication leads to immediate damage to vital components.
Symptoms of low oil level
- Reduced acceleration
- Overheating
- Metallic knocking noises
- Unstable idle
- Increased vibrations
How to avoid all the above mistakes – Gandoil practical guide
Engine maintenance does not need to be complicated. By following a few simple principles, you can ensure your engine always runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
Engine maintenance guide
| Action | Frequency | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Oil level check | Every 500–1,000 km | Or before every trip |
| Oil change | According to manufacturer | Using only Gandoil |
| Filter change | With every oil change | Mandatory |
| Choosing correct viscosity | Based on manufacturer guidelines | Refer to viscosity table |
| Choosing correct oil type | Based on motorcycle use | Fully synthetic for high demands |
The most common engine maintenance mistakes usually happen out of ignorance or the false belief that “the engine can handle it.” The reality is that the engine can only handle it when it is properly lubricated, with the correct lubricant, in the right quantities, and with regular maintenance.
Gand Oil provides high-technology lubricants, specially designed to meet all motorcycle needs and protect the engine even under the most demanding conditions.